SCF formulae for fatigue design of K-connections between square hollow sections

Abstract A large numerical study into stress concentration factors (SCFs) for K-connections between square hollow sections has been carried out. An overview of the Finite Element (FE) model and methods used for the determination of the stress concentration factors is given. The results of the study are presented as a series of parametric formulae, together with other design guidelines necessary. A comparison with test results shows the accuracy of the method. The work complements earlier studies on 90° T- and X-connections, presented in van Wingerde et al. (Journal of Constructional Steel Reseach, 1995, 71–115). In combination with work by others on circular hollow sections, this work forms a solid basis for general fatigue design guidelines for Hollow Structural Section (HSS) connections.